A New Decade, A New Spirit

Winners of 11th Teacher’s Achievement Awards include:

Teacher’s Lifetime Achievement Award: Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma
Teacher’s Achievement Award for Business: Ronnie Screwvala, Zarine Mehta; Siddharth Roy Kapur for UTV Motion Pictures
Teacher’s Achievement Award for Communication (Electronic Journalism) : Nidhi Razdan
Teacher’s Achievement Award for Sports : Gagan Narang
Teacher’s Achievement Award for Entertainment: Vidya Balan
Teacher’s Global Indian Achiever Award: Anil Kapoor
People Teacher’s Achiever Award: Anushka Sharma
Teacher’s Youth Achievers’ Club Recognition: Durjoy Datta

All roads in Delhi led to the ITC Maurya as Beam Inc celebrated the spirit of achievement with the 11th Teacher’s Achievement Awards (TAA). The evening commemorated the start of the second decade of the one of the most prestigious, respected and admired Teacher’s Achievement Awards by welcoming into its fold the finest achievers from the fields of Business, Entertainment, Sports and Communication. The awards underwent a stringent evaluation process by a distinguished panel of jury members before the final winners were announced in the national capital today.

Recognizing the tireless efforts of taking India to the global stage, TAA honoured the inimitable Pandit Shiv Kumar Sharma with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Sharma has been at the forefront of taking Indian classical music to the international stage while being steadfast attached to the Indian roots. His contribution to Indian music is unmatchable and achievements as an individual, insurmountable. He is credited with making the Santoor a popular Classical Instrument. Sharma is the recipient of various national and international awards, including an honorary citizenship of the city of Baltimore, USA, in 1985, the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1986, the Padma Shri in 1991, and the Padma Vibhushan in 2001. The award was presented by Shabana Azmi, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and Matt Shattock, President and CEO, Beam Inc.

Congratulating winners of the 11th TAA, Matthew J Shattock, President and CEO, Beam Inc said, “The Teacher’s Achievement Awards have come a long way in the past decade. This is a very proud moment for all of us at Beam as we enter the second decade of achievements and excellence with the Teacher’s Achievement Awards. I would like to congratulate all the winners – present as well as past – who have excelled … thanks to their talent … steadfast determination … and winning spirit. It is an honor to be in the company of such a rich spectrum of accomplishment from so many walks of life.”

Anil Kapoor who has received international acclaim for his contribution to Indian cinema was recognised with the Teacher’s Global Indian Achiever Award. Dr L Subramaniam, Ramesh Sippy and Harish Moolchandani, CEO and Managing Director Beam India and ISC gave away the award to Kapoor.

The bubbly and vibrant Anushka Sharma who has been seen playing vivid roles in films like Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi, Patiala House, Badmaash Company, Band Baaja Baaraat received the People Teacher’s Achiever Award.

The evening opened with a stunning performance of Manasi Scott who performed the Teacher’s anthem to an alluring audience. This was followed with the traditional “Teacher’s Achievers’ Walk” designed and choreographed by the designer duo Rohit Gandhi-Rahul Khanna. The duo crafted a special collection for the past winners, jury members which included – Shabana Azmi, Pankaj Advani, Feroz Abbas Khan, Louis Bankz, Prahlad Kakkar, L Subramaniam, Nagesh Kukunoor, Manish Arora, Michael Ferreira, Prasoon Joshi, Anjali Bhagwat and Boman Irani.

Mr Harish Moolchandani, CEO and Managing Director Beam India & ISC said, “I would like to congratulate all the winners who have not only excelled in their own individual capacity but are in some way anchors for the future of this beautiful country by becoming an example of motivation to the youth of today. Teacher’s Achievement Awards are a symbol of excellence. And we are proud to be associated with individuals of the stature that we see today. Beam Inc welcomes each and every winner of the 11th Teacher’s Achievement Awards into its family.”

Boman Irani, who has been associated with the Teacher’s Achievement Award since 2003, co-hosted the evening with Vir Sanghavi. Irani was honoured with the Teacher’s Achiever of the Decade in 2010. The evening also saw mesmerizing acts by Eric Luna and Georgia Ambarian. After performing in Hong Kong, Germany, Poland, Canada, Mexico, South Africa and all over the United States, Eric and Georgia stunned the Indian audience with their extraordinary ballroom dancing skills. The grand finale saw a splendid performance with solo acts followed by a jugalbandi between Anoushka Shankar, Medieval Punditz, Karsh Kale and Angaraag ‘Papon’ Mahanta.

The evening saw past winners, jury members and key stakeholders of the Teacher’s Achievement Awards join the celebrations at the Nandiya Gardens at ITC Maurya. Those present included Ramesh Sippy, Jacqueline Fernandes, Kavita Subramaniam, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Vinod Mehta, Kashi Memani, BS Nagesh and Pablo Bartholomew among others.

Nominees for the 11th Teacher’s Achievement Awards included:

Business

Ronnie Screwwala and Zarine Mehta for UTV
Ekta Kapoor and Shobha Kapoor for Balaji Telefilms
Yash Chopra for Yashraj Films
Kishore Lulla & Sunil Lulla for Eros Entertainment
Shahrukh Khan & Gauri Khan for Red Chillies Entertainment
Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar for Excel Entertainment

Communication

Vikram Chandra – NDTV
Sonia Verma Singh – NDTV
Nidhi Razdan – NDTV
Shereen Bhan – CNBC
Anuradha Sengupta – CNBC

Entertainment

Farhan Akhtar
Anushka Sharma
Vidya Balan
Hrithik Roshan
Imran Khan

Sports

Gagan Narang
Vijender Singh
Jwala Gutta
Arjun Atwal
Saina Nehwal

The event was managed by Wizcraft International.

As a precursor to the TAA, Beam Inc commissioned a special television series, “Achiever’s Club”, a 14-part series that showcased the glittery, glamorous and fabulous lives of self-made achievers of India. The Achievers’ Club is an exclusive series where India’s most celebrated achievers like KP Singh, Vidya Balan, Rajeev Chandrashekhar, Naveen Jindal, Manish Arora, Ustad Amjad Ali Khan and many more share their success mantras and millionaire lifestyle with the host Vir Sanghvi. The series currently AIRs on Star World on Saturday @ 8pm.

Instituted in 2001, the Teacher’s Achievement Awards recognise the true potential of human endeavour. Over the years, the awards have welcomed into its family, achievers who are the nation’s most respected names in the realms of business, sports, entertainment, literature, fashion, lifestyle and communication. Today, it stands as the most definitive platform of recognition for India’s finest, most trailblazing achievers. Now in its 11th edition, the awards greet the decade ahead by saluting the achievers who have made their ‘mark of achievement’.

The Teacher’s Achievement Awards, in partnership with KPMG and the Advisory Board oversee a stringent selection process and grade the nominees before the Jury takes over. The nominees are evaluated on the basis of specific criteria – proven track record, originality, innovation, peer recognition and significant milestones achieved in the chosen area of expertise. The final winners chosen by the Jury members are then felicitated at the grand finale.

Beam Inc is using the online and offline space very aggressively to promote the 11th Teacher’s Achievement Awards. Information is being shared using multiple communication channels, including the official website of the awards, www.teachersachievementawards.com. Regular updates, interesting information and latest developments on the awards will also be made available on Twitter. Users can follow the awards on the official TAA page on facebook – www.facebook.com/TeachersIndia  and on twitter at http://twitter.com/TeachersIndia . Internet users can view event videos by subscribing to the official channel http://www.youtube.com/user/TeachersIndia/featured

Royal Salute Launches Majestic Advertising Campaign In China

Royal Salute, the world’s leading luxury Scotch whisky, has unveiled a new television advertising campaign in China to further underline the brand’s luxury status. The ‘Today’s Kings’ commercial is part of Royal Salute’s global communication platform, ‘Noble Leadership’, which aims to explore new dimensions of luxury and redefine the top end of the whisky category.

With a long legacy of paying tribute to nobility and leadership, the brand commissioned consumer research among whisky connoisseurs in China, to define how and why noble leadership is relevant to them. The results helped inspire this latest campaign, which identifies a select group of bold leaders, each with three key attributes – they are visionary and dare to go beyond; they have the boldness, courage and self-belief to grasp their visions; and their actions are not driven by self-interest, but by a belief in a greater good.

The 45 second television commercial, now on air in China, sees four men who are leaders in their respective fields, whose conviction, talent and vision inspire their journey to fulfil their goals. After following them on their respective journeys, the advert concludes with the four men coming together to share a toast with Royal Salute 21 Year Old. The commercial ends with the tagline ‘Royal Salute – the journey begins where others end’.

Neil Macdonald, Brand Director for Royal Salute, said: “We’re delighted with this stirring, masculine new TV creative for the Chinese market. It truly reflects the brand’s power and luxury and will help cement Royal Salute’s position at the highest end of the whisky category.”

The advert was shot in Queenstown, New Zealand, by well-known commercial director Jeff Darling, and features original scored music.

Notes:

Royal Salute
The pinnacle of Scotch whisky, award-winning Royal Salute was first created as a tribute by Chivas Brothers to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II upon her coronation in 1953. This defining luxury whisky has a very powerful and sophisticated style, and has become the world’s leading luxury Scotch whisky brand.
Royal Salute has a long legacy of paying tribute to nobility and leadership and this is part of the brand’s DNA
• 1953: Royal Salute created to pay tribute to Her Majesty the Queen’s coronation
• 2003: Royal Salute 50 Year Old launched for the 50th anniversary of the coronation, also paid tribute to Sir Edmund Hillary’s and Sir Tensing Norgay’s on the anniversary of their successful ascent of Everest
• 2005: Royal Salute 38 Year Old launched – a tribute from Scotland, inspired by the Stone of Destiny
• 2010: Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute launched paying tribute to the craftsmanship of four master blenders who have safeguarded the Royal Salute legacy since 1953
• 2011: Royal Salute Tribute to Honour launched, the Honours are most notable and compelling symbols of Scottish royalty

Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard – the world’s co-leader in wine and spirits. Chivas Brothers is the global leader in luxury Scotch whisky and premium gin. Its portfolio includes Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s, Beefeater Gin, The Glenlivet, Royal Salute, Aberlour, Plymouth Gin, Longmorn, Scapa, 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport.

In July 2010 Chivas Brothers launched The Age Matters campaign to help consumers understand the importance of Scotch whisky age statements.

For further information: www.chivasbrothers.com

AUCHENTOSHAN SINGLE MALT WHISKY LAUNCHES EXCITING NEW RANGE EXCLUSIVE TO TRAVEL RETAIL

Four core expressions, beautifully matured, each with its own distinctive style

This March (2012), Auchentoshan, Scotland’s only triple distilled Single Malt whisky, will launch a new and exclusive range for the travel retail sector, consisting of four core permanent expressions supplemented by two limited editions released each year.

Available globally in a range of international airports, terminals and border shops, the range is targeted at global travellers who want to explore a stylish and unique range of Single Malt whiskies as well as whisky collectors and aficionados.

With a view to expand and grow the Single Malt category globally, this compelling collection boasts a distinct style and taste, all beautifully maturated using a selection of fine North American and European oak casks previously used for the ageing of Bourbon, Spanish Oloroso Sherry and Pedro Ximénez Sherry. This provides Auchentoshan with a strong point-of-difference within the sector.

With two expressions carrying an age statement, this new range takes its cues from the oak casks used to mature the whisky. During cask maturation the spirit takes on a multi-layered complexity from the wood – in the aromas, tastes and texture. Being the only Scottish Single Malt whisky to triple distil every drop means that the spirit produced starts life at 81.5% ABV; most distilleries settle for 70% ABV. It is this quality of Auchentoshan’s distillate paired with the carefully selected oak casks that gives these whiskies some astonishing flavours – these factors are equally, if not more important than merely age. Many whiskies can in fact have a less mature character if matured in lesser quality oak.

Rachel Barrie, Master Blender at Morrison BowmoreDistillers, states: ““The new Auchentoshan Travel Retail range brings the story of cask maturation alive, allowing the drinker to experience the distinctive influence of different casks from North America and Spain as well as the influence of age. We have created a range for exploration and discovery, from aperitif to digestif in style, soft and sweet to dark and delicious in taste. I am very excited to have the opportunity to share these intriguing and highly distinctive expressions of Auchentoshan with the world.”

The wood theme is evident throughout all aspects of the new range with each expression’s name being inspired by the tree life cycle stages that reflect the malts’ personality and flavours:-

Springwood is the time when most of the growing happens for a tree and thus this malt is fresh, zesty and sweet – reminiscent of eating fruits in a spring garden. Springwood is 100% North American ex-bourbon oak and its name is inspired by the higher percentage of springwood in North American oak

Heartwood is the core of the tree and like an older sibling to Springwood; a rich, warming and hearty dram, with an intense and complex taste. It is matured in a combination of toasted Spanish Oloroso sherry casks and deeply charred North American bourbon casks to create this rich and warming dram

14YO Cooper’s Reserve is named so as it is mature and well rounded; it has a complex relationship with the wood and is perfect for a special occasion. At 14 years old, this whisky has developed an ideal and unique balance of soft dried fruit and intense nuttiness

Silveroak has an incredible multi-layered complexity, is a rare whisky and thus is named after the silver rings that appear on the inside of an older tree. Bottled at the traditional high strength of 51.5% ABV and non-chilled filtered, the expressions makes for a wonderful digestif to sip and savour

Solera is named after a process for producing and ageing sherry due to the use of ex Pedro Ximénez casks in thisexpression. Renowned as the ‘King of all Sherries’, Pedro Ximénez casks add contrasting deep aromas and textures. Solera is dark, intense and alluring – perfect for moments of pure indulgence or as a gifting item

As a top-10 travel retail brand in Europe with big aspirations and enjoying double-digit growth year on year within the sector, the new range is a compelling consumer-driven concept to build on the successes so far. This bold wood proposition offersconsumers differentiation within a competitive category, providing a strong-selling back story. The stylish and contemporary packaging with new taste cues for each expression also brings to life the story of each cask, appealing to a cross demographic and embracing the consumers’ desire for discovery and learning about the history and craftsmanship of the whisky.

David Wilson, Sales & Marketing Director of Morrison Bowmore Distillers, commented on the new range: “Single Malts is one of the fastest growing sectors of travel retail, so we understand the importance of getting it right. We are extremely proud to launch this unique and differentiated range exclusively for the global traveller that taps into the pleasure of the Single Malt experience in a modern and relevant way. The careful attention and ongoing investment in our oak casks combined with our unique adherence to triple distillation has resulted in an exceptional range of quality malts.”

AUCHENTOSHAN SPRINGWOOD

Springwood – the time of most fresh growth for the tree

40% ABV, RRP: £34.99, 1 Litre

100% Bourbon cask matured

Nose Vibrant, sweet and delicious. First nose reveals barley sugar, Seville orange, coconut creams, honey and lemon toddies. Also, poached pears and green bananas. Behind the sweetness, a spring garden in the morning dew with narcissus and daffodils. Water releases vanilla madeleines and lemon bonbons with coconut ice, macaroon and a drizzle of chocolate sauce. Roses now appear in the garden.

Taste Lively and charismatic on the tongue. A burst of tangy citrus (clementines and pink grapefruit) and warming barley sugar with a frisson of coconut, trace of honey and dewy floral notes.

Finish Clean and salving with grapefruit, citrus and dew.

AUCHENTOSHAN HEARTWOOD

Heartwood – the rich core or heart of the tree

43% ABV, RRP: £41.99, 1 Litre

Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry Matured

Nose: Rich, enticing and very warming with smouldering toasted oak notes. First nose brings burnt candy and baked fruit desserts in an oak cabinet. Seductive sandalwood and rosewood pull you in with cinnamon spice and rich Viennese coffee. Next Moroccan spices and baked blood orange  appear with toasted tonka beans and Christmas cloves. Water brings out more toasted warmth on the nose with leather, vanilla, more spices and traces of liquorice and walnut. Toffee and coffee are sweet and delicious.

Taste: Rich, warming and comforting, like a soft velvet blanket. Dark chocolate orange, burnt vanilla pods, velvety leather and cinnamon sizzle.

Finish: Orange spiced dark chocolate.

AUCHENTOSHAN 14 YEARS OLD COOPERS RESERVE

An autumn harvest table

46% ABV, £49.99, 70cl

Marriage of Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks

Non chill filtered and high strength

Nose: A cornucopia of fruit, nuts and barley, reminiscent of an autumn harvest table. Roasted barley and chocolate pralines bring the first layers of aroma. Treacle toffee and chocolate brazil nuts follow with butterscotch and crème brulee. Water releases fruit and nut muesli with freshly squeezed orange. Chocolate follows with hazelnuts, almonds, dried apricots and figs. Oiled leather emerges with traces of walnut oil.

Taste: Well-rounded and mature with a creamy texture. Dried figs and apricots are sumptuous and sweet, interwoven with a cornucopia of hazelnuts and almonds. Chocolate pralines are smooth and creamy.

Finish: Chocolate pralines, apricots and walnut oil.

AUCHENTOSHAN SILVEROAK

The perfect digestif

51.5% ABV, RRP: £79.99, 70cl

Vintage, small batch release of 500 cases in 2012 and 2013

A 1990 limited edition that has been matured in fine North American Bourbon and Spanish Oloroso Sherry casks

Nose: Captivating and heady with botanical herbs, warm fruits and deep floral scents. Fennel, gorse bushes and a hint of black pepper awaken the senses to the veritable delights that await beneath. Aromas of honeysuckle, vetiver and tea tree oil create the impression of a late summer aromatic garden, tempered by soft jasmine and oiled oak. There’s a satisfying deep fruitiness too with baked bananas drizzled with honey and warm toffee, served with almonds and liquorice root. Water brings out more banana fruit with pine nuts, honeysuckle and fresh mint. Rose-scented Turkish delight with a sprinkling of icing sugar now appears alongside liquorice and mint, perfect for after dinner.

Taste: Creamy, oily and mellow with warm coffee, a teaspoon of Demerara sugar and cleansing mint chocolate. A wonderful digestif to sip and savour.

Finish: Dark chocolate mint cleanses the palate with a lovely cooling finish.

AUCHENTOSHAN SOLERA

Rich and indulgent

48% ABV £130.00 70CL

Matured in a selection of fine oak casks and finished in Pedro Ximenez

Non chill filtered and high strength

Nose: Mature, mellow and deeply aromatic.Dark dried fruit with Victoria plums, cherries and raisins, followed by a deep and unctuous oiliness, reminiscent of beeswax and linseed oil. A basket of richly spiced dark fruits in an oiled cabinet.Water brings out more deeply seductive oiliness, but also rich plumy fruits and scents of rosewood and cherry blossom with warm roasted Columbian coffee in the background.

Taste: Full bodied with a thick, oily and chewy mouth-feel.Plums, dates, burnt toffee and toasted almonds in a cherry, raisin and blackcurrant flan. Dark chocolate brings depth and a bittersweet dimension with cherries inside.

Finish: Chocolate, dates and toasted almonds.

This new range is exclusively available in World Duty Free stores from 7th March and general release from April 2012. For all sales enquiries please contact Morrison Bowmore Distillers +44 141 558 9011

For more information visit: www.auchentoshan.co.uk

HIGHLAND PARK BRINGS 21 YEAR OLD TO UK MARKET

Highland Park is launching a 21 year old single malt into its UK portfolio for the first time, two years after it was removed from global distribution following a complete sell out of the award winning product.

Limited stock of Highland Park 21 year old, which was named ‘best whisky in the world 2009’ in the World Whisky Awards, is now available. Significant demand is expected, including in the restaurant trade which has seen a 151% increase in premium malts sales.

Matured in mainly American oak Sherry casks, Highland Park 21 year old is full flavoured with hints of candied orange peel and spicy dark chocolate leading to a rich smoky sensation. It is Orkney sunset reddish gold in appearance, with a complex sweet smoky finish.

Gerry Tosh, Global Marketing Manager, Highland Park commented: “Bottling the 21 year old at 47.5% gives this particular expression maximum flavour delivery, which is always a priority for Highland Park. It also has drier smokier notes allowing whisky drinkers the opportunity to taste another side of Highland Park. It is fantastic to be bringing this to consumers in the UK. ”

Highland Park 21 year old will join Highland Park’s permanent portfolio of 12, 18, 25, 30 and 40 year old single malts. It will be available from specialist independent whisky retailers throughout the UK, the Highland Park distillery and www.highlandpark.co.uk at a RRP of £100. It will also be available in selected bars and restaurants.

www.highlandpark.co.uk

Notes:

Premium Malts gain +151% volume increase in restaurants. Source: CGA P02 2011.

Highland Park 21 year old tasting notes:

Appearance: Natural colour, reddish gold Orkney sunset
Nose: Butterscotch, dark chocolate and orange
Palate: Full flavor, candied orange peel with spicy dark chocolate leading to a rich smoky sensation
Finish: Rich, complex, sweet smoky sensation then soft medium dry

Highland Park: Five keystones contribute to making the Best Spirit in the World:Hand-turned malt adds to the deliciously succulent, balanced layers of aromatic character found in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.Aromatic peat gives a delectably seductive, luxuriant floral sweetness to Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.Cool maturation enhances the smooth character of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.Sherry oak casks contribute to the distinctive richness and multi-dimensional complexity of Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.Cask harmonisation ensures consistency and balance in Highland Park single malt Scotch whisky.Established in 1798 on Orkney, Highland Park is one of the most remote Scotch whisky distilleries in the world. For over 200 years, the distillery has combined time old tradition and the very best craftsmanship to achieve perfection. Its range of 12, 18, 21, 25, 30 and 40 year old single malts is consistently acclaimed by connoisseurs and experts. Highland Park has won a string of prestigious awards across its portfolio, most recently including ‘best new whisky release of the year 2009’ for its 40-year-old single malt and ‘best whisky in the world 2009’ for its 21-year-old expression in the World Whisky Awards, as well as four double gold awards in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2009.

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky unveils the latest annual vintage release – anCnoc 1998

anCnoc 1998 is a continuation of a series of highly praised small batch vintage releases from the Knockdhu Distillery. Spirit from American Oak ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks at the optimum level of maturity was brought together and bottled in February 2012 to produce only 850 cases of whisky. The spirit has been bottled in its natural form – unchill-filtered and at natural colour. It has a premium ABV of 46%.

It has become a tradition at anCnoc to release a limited vintage expression every year. Each time no more than a few casks are artfully put together by the Distillery Manager Gordon Bruce and company’s Master Blender Stuart Harvey to showcase the character of the spirit from the vintage year. These small batches of fine Single Malt are a mark of anCnoc’s commitment to hand-crafting whisky. They are a true celebration of the art of distilling.

anCnoc 1998 will be available in the UK, Germany, Russia, Japan and France from March 2012.

Notes

• anCnoc [a-nock] Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is produced at Knockdhu Distillery in the village of Knock near Huntly. The distillery was established in 1894 and is considered one of the most enchanting in Scotland.
• Core expressions of anCnoc include a 12 year old and a 16 year old. Both are multi-award-winning and celebrated worldwide.
• anCnoc 1998 benefits from being unchill-filtered. This means extra body and flavour. The whisky may however develop a light haze with the addition of water or if chilled – it is natural.

Whisky outperforms gold as IGS market enjoys meteoric rise

The market for Investment Grade Scotch (IGS) is continuing to outperform other alternative investments and commodities, according to new figures to be released today by whisky valuation experts, Whisky Highland.

Four year figures, from 2008 to the end of 2011, will reveal that an investment in the top 10 performing whiskies would have achieved a gain of more than 400%. An investment in the top 100 would have returned a 245% gain, whilst the top 250 would have returned 180%.

In comparison, gold, which has experienced a renaissance in recent years, has risen 146% over the same period, and diamonds by just 10%. Compared to the gains accrued by some other stocks and commodities, the returns from whisky begin to look very attractive.

A total of 8,500 bottles were last year sold at auction compared to 1,500 four years ago. The value of that auction market reached £4M in 2011 and is expected to rise to £17M by 2020. Global investor and collector bottle retail sales confirm that the retail sector is also booming with bottle sales thought to total 85,000 per year worth around £44 million.

The fourth quarter of 2011 saw a significant jump both in sales and volume, with more than 3,000 bottles coming up for auction in the UK with sales totalling more than £600,000, compared to less than 2,000 a year earlier with sales reaching around £400,000.

Last year, a bottle of The Dalmore 62 was sold at Changi Airport in Singapore for a world record £125,000, following on from the sale of a bottle of Dalmore 64 in Harrods for £120,000. The most expensive bottle ever sold at auction is a bottle of Macallan 64 year old ‘Cire Perdue’ which sold at auction in the US for $460,000

The latest three year data for investment grade Scotch will be unveiled today (2nd March)by Andy Simpson, founder of Whisky Highland in the world’s first Whisky Investment Seminar at the 2012 Universal Whisky Experience in Las Vegas.

Andy Simpson launched Whisky Highland in 2010 with the aim of offering a whisky valuation service for whisky collectors and investors. Having tracked every bottle sold at auction over the past three years, the business now offers the world’s first and only online single malt Scotch whisky ‘Valuation Library’.

Commenting on the latest market data, Andy Simpson, founder of Whisky Highland said:

“Over the last twelve months, the market for whisky investment has begun to catch the eye of the investment community. Some of the rare and limited bottlings from the top performing distilleries such as The Dalmore and Macallan are achieving eye-watering returns at auction, outperforming most other forms of alternative assets. I’m confident that it won’t be long before whisky is viewed in the same light as art, wine or classic cars, offering a genuine and creditable alternative to these more established asset classes. We can already see this happening with the growth of the dedicated whisky auction market. Where you would previously see a few bottle of whisky bolted on the end of a wine auction, there are now a number of dedicated whisky auctions taking place across the UK and further afield in countries such as Hong Kong.”

Rare Whisky Director for The Dalmore, David Robertson said:

“The demand for rare and limited edition whiskies is exceptional, and it’s a trend that is set to continue in line with the uplift in other luxury goods markets. We are going to see more distilleries and brands release very special whiskies which are designed to meet the growing demand from luxury consumers looking for the ultimate in unique products, whether to use and enjoy or to collect and invest.

For more information, visit www.whiskyhighland.co.uk

Released by Harry Hussain, Weber Shandwick, Edinburgh

Weber Shandwick is a Public Relations Consultancy that does PR business for The Dalmore – Whisky Intelligence

Smokehead Reveals Limited Edition Rock Design

29 February 2012, Edinburgh: Smokehead, the rich and powerful Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Ian Macleod Distillers, has released a new limited Rock Edition to celebrate its credentials as the rock n’ roll spirit of choice for 2012.

The limited edition evolves from the design of Smokehead’s existing tactile metal presentation tin, demanding attention with the introduction of a smoking skull, the time-honoured symbol of rock. Cocooned within the skull are the many adjectives that capture the Single Malt’s boisterous, outrageous, and deep peaty flavours.

Like the original award-winning packaging, The Rock Edition maximises its impact using embossed and debossed techniques to heighten the 3-D ‘reality’ of the new skull design and create a premium feel. The main Smokehead branding is also embossed, while a square letterpress block motif on the rear of the tin, reflecting the bottle label design is joined by a full flavour descriptor that also highlights Smokehead’s connection with music.

Entering its third year as the official drinks sponsor of The Marshall Ultimate Band Contest, the unsigned band showdown, in partnership with legendary Marshall Amps and Lick Library, Smokehead has also established itself as the drink of choice at big rock events including the annual Classic Rock Roll of Honour Awards 2009-2011. The must attend event for rock artists and industry heavyweights, previous attendees have included iconic rock legends Slash, Brian May, Jeff Beck and Gene Simmons.

Ian Weir, Marketing Director for Ian Macleod Distillers commented: “The new limited edition presentation tin not only celebrates Smokehead’s close affinity to rock music, but reaffirms the brand’s unique position within the Single Malt category. Smokehead is vigorous and unapologetic about its big and intense peaty flavours. Like rock and roll, people must accept it for what it is or not at all. The brand is an enthusiastic supporter of rock music and we have some exciting plans underway to take this even further in 2012.”

A rich, seaweedy and intensely peaty Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Smokehead is not for the faint hearted. With immense fresh and fruity flavours that burst with notes of sherry, iodine, toffee, smoke and sea salt, Smokehead hits the palate like a cannonball.

Smokehead ‘The Rock Edition’ will be available in the UK and international markets throughout 2012. Smokehead is widely available throughout the UK and worldwide, RRP £33.49. Details of some stockists can be found on the website www.smokehead.com

Curious to discover more, visit www.smokehead.com

Smokehead Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky encourages responsible drinking

Notes:

Smokehead Single Islay Malt Tasting notes:

Scottish Parliament Welcomes World Whisky Day

Today the Scottish Parliament welcomed World Whisky Day and congratulated an Aberdeen University student for pioneering the event.

World Whisky Day will be held on 27 March 2012 and is the first time that whisky will be celebrated internationally on a specific day. Aberdeen University student Blair Bowman initiated the celebration which has attracted worldwide interest and support. Events will be held in the United States, Canada, across Europe, South Africa, Dubai, Kyrgyzstan, India, South Korea, Malaysia, and Australia.

Aberdeen Central MSP Kevin Stewart raised a motion in the Scottish Parliament hailing the international event, recognising how it can boost the reputation of Scottish Whisky and congratulating Blair Bowman for the work he has done to create the event. The motion has received cross party support.

Kevin Stewart MSP said:

“I am pleased to be able to recognise this international event which originated in Aberdeen. World Whisky Day has attracted such wide spread support from around the globe and will help to promote Scotland’s valuable exports. I hope to see it being repeated in the coming years giving a real focus to responsible enjoyment of our national drink.

“Blair has done a fantastic job getting World Whisky Day off the ground and I hope to see it getting further support from around the globe and locally in Scotland. This is a great opportunity for the industry to build on the success and reputation of whisky.”

Blair Bowman said:

“There has been tremendous support for World Whisky Day around the world but it is fantastic to have the Scottish Parliament welcoming World Whisky Day, and calling for its continued success.”

Notes:

SCOTTISH PARLIAMENT MOTION
Date of Lodging: 28 February 2012
Short Title: World Whisky Day
S4M-02141 Kevin Stewart () (Scottish National Party): That the Parliament congratulates Aberdeen resident, Blair Bowman, on creating a dedicated international day of celebration in honour of whisky: welcomes this, the first World Whisky Day, on 27 March 2012; believes that it will help to promote Scotland’s national drink round the world; understands that the day has already attracted interest from India, USA, South Africa and Kyrgyzstan, and would like to see World Whisky Day being successful for many years to come.

Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup to Close Prince Harry’s Official Tour of Brazil

Prince Harry’s first official visit to Brazil will include a game of international polo, with the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup on Sunday 11 March marking the finale of the royal tour.

Taking place in Campinas, São Paulo State, the match will be a star-studded event both on and off field with leading Argentine player Nacho Figueras heading up the St Regis team, rivaling the Sentebale team which will include Prince Harry.

Christian Porta, Chairman and CEO of Chivas Brothers said: “We’re so proud to be supporting such a deserving charity at an event that will no doubt be the highlight of the Royal Salute World Polo calendar,”

“The Brazilian appetite for the world’s leading luxury Scotch is clear with sales of Royal Salute more than doubling over the past year. The thriving market combined with the priority brand’s status as the fastest growing* within the Pernod Ricard Group are both strong signs of a bright future in this stunning country.”

The Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup further highlights the Scotch whisky brand’s solid commitment to international polo, with recent tournaments including the Foundation Polo Challenge in California, the Royal Salute China Open Beijing, the Royal Salute Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup in India and the Royal Salute UAE Nation’s Cup, Dubai.

Notes

*Pernod Ricard June 2011 Annual Results

About Royal Salute World Polo

In addition to the Sentebale Royal Salute Polo Cup, Royal Salute World Polo is proud to support some of the world’s most prestigious and luxurious polo tournaments.
• Australia Sydney Gold Cup, Sydney
• Brazil Triplice Coroa Tournament, Helvetia Polo Club, São Paulo
• Brazil Copa Ouro Championship, Indaiatuba, São Paulo
• China Royal Salute Tang Polo Cup, Beijing
• China Royal Salute China Open, Beijing
• China Tianjin Snow Polo, Tianjin
• India Royal Salute Maharaja of Jodhpur Golden Jubilee Cup
• Korea Country Polo Club, Jeju
• Spain Santa Maria Club Snow Polo, Sierra Nevada
• Spain Sotogrande Polo Cup, Cadiz
• UAE Royal Salute Nations Cup, Dubai
• UK Kent & Curwen Polo Cup, London
• USA Royal Salute CV Whitney Cup, International Polo Club, West Palm Beach

In 2011, Royal Salute World Polo was proud to be involved in several polo tournaments, supporting charities whose patrons include the Duke of Cambridge and Prince Harry.
• USA The Foundation Polo Challenge 2011, Santa Barbara, California in aid of the U.S Friends of the Foundation of Prince William and Prince Harry
• UK The Sentebale Polo Cup 2011, Coworth Park, Berkshire, England
• UK Bernard Weatherhill Polo Cup, Tetbury, England

About Sentebale

Sentebale was founded by Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso from the Lesotho Royal family in response to the plight of the neediest and most vulnerable of Lesotho’s children.

For further information www.chivasbrothers.com

An EDINBURGH venue has become the first in the UK to be declared an on-trade Ardbeg Embassy for one of the world’s most prestigious whisky brands.

The WHISKI Rooms, in North Bank Street, has received the accolade from Islay distiller Ardbeg. As well as selling the distillery’s finest malts amongst its selection of hundreds of whiskies the bar, restaurant and tasting rooms will offer an Ardbeg-inspired menu for diners.

The globally-renowned malt whisky producer rarely gives it permission for its name to be used commercially, but an official said it was delighted to work with the WHISKI Rooms.

Mickey Heads, Ardbeg Distillery Manager, said: “The Whiski Rooms have proven themselves to be passionate and loyal Ardbeggians, which is why we selected them as the UK’s first ever On-Trade Ardbeg Embassy. We’re delighted to welcome the Whiski Rooms as an Embassy, and I look forward to sampling the Ardbeg-inspired food menu the next time I pop in for a dram.”

Ardbeg has been voted best whisky in the world three years in a row and although Islay has a population of just 3,000 the Ardbeg Committee has a worldwide membership of 50,000.

WHISKI Rooms owner Anne Still said: “We are proud to be named the first ever on-trade Ardbeg Embassy in the UK and know this is an initiative that they are keen to expand in the UK. We promise Ardbeg whisky fans a fabulous range of Ardbeg whiskies in our gantry and our adjoining shop. As well as private dining in our Ardbeg room, we have an amazing Ardbeg inspired menu available”

The WHISKI Rooms launched in June 2011 and is the sister operation to the multi award winning WHISKI Bar and Restaurant on the Royal Mile – current Whisky Bar of the Year 2011/2012. It’s range incorporates a range of whisky experiences in one: a dedicated whisky shop selling one of the largest range of whiskies available in Scotland, all available for mail order, plus a bar, restaurant and a dedicated tasting room that hosts daily whisky tastings.

For further information contact www.whiskirooms.co.uk
Email: info@whiskirooms.co.uk